Spend a full day outside Cape Town spotting the Big Five at Aquila Private Game Reserve, then unwind with a wine tasting in the Cape Winelands. This guided, transport-included tour pairs wildlife viewing with local vintages for a single, well-paced day trip.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Before dawn the coach slips out of Cape Town and the city’s lights give way to wide, low veld and the first scrubby karoo bushes. The road hums, and by midmorning guests are scanning the plains of Aquila Private Game Reserve where herds and solitary silhouettes move against a broad sky. Vehicles kick up dust; guides lower voices and point — lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, rhinoceros remain the headline attractions, but it’s the rhythm of the reserve you remember: the steady chew of antelope, the distant bark of jackal, the heat shimmering off the earth.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness—able to sit for long drives, embark/exit vehicles and walk short distances at the reserve.
Wildlife
History
The route links colonial-era agricultural settlements and modern viticulture—Paarl’s wine houses date to the 17th–19th centuries and shaped regional land use.
Conservation
Aquila operates as a private reserve with anti-poaching and habitat management programs; visitors should minimize disturbance by following guide instructions and avoiding single-use plastics.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day Big 5 Safari & Wine Tasting Tour with Pre-Booked Ticket today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a long lens or binoculars
Safari viewing is best with a 200mm+ lens or 8x–10x binoculars to see cats and distant elephants clearly.
Layer for temperature swings
Morning game drives start cool and afternoons in the Winelands warm up—wear layers you can shed.
Hydrate and protect from sun
Bring a refillable water bottle and high-SPF sunscreen; the midday sun is intense even in dry seasons.
Respect wildlife boundaries
Follow guide instructions and avoid sudden movements or loud noises—animals can be unpredictable.
Binoculars (8x–10x)
Increases your chance of spotting distant or camouflaged wildlife during the game drive.
Telephoto camera lens (200mm+)
Helps capture close-up wildlife shots without disturbing animals.
Sun hat and sunscreen
Protects from intense UV during midday in the Winelands and on open game drives.
summer
Closed-toe shoes
Comfortable footwear for walking short reserve trails and moving around vehicles safely.